Work is set to begin on the redevelopment of an old Perthshire golf course, which could create around 350 jobs and pump £3.5 million into the local economy.
Part of the defunct Glenisla course, near Alyth, is being transformed into a new village, with scores of homes and a new hotel.
Phase one of the project, which includes a 60-bed care home, 20 houses and three “flexible” business units across 125 acres, was backed by councillors in December.
Now the site masterplan has been formally approved, following behind-the-scenes talks between council officers and developers.
The planned care home will be run by Healthcare Management Solutions, one of the UK’s biggest care service providers, and will have a particular emphasis on people living with dementia.
The under-performing Glenisla course was sold in 2016. Nine holes have now been incorporated into the neighbouring Alyth Golf Course, while the clubhouse is still in use as a cafe.
New owners Glenisla Developments hope the course will attract people to the area.
The 20 homes in phase one will include assisted-living bungalows, with extra support provided by staff at the care home.
The firm’s planning consultant Malcolm Smith previously said: “The development will contribute positively to the local economy, generating employment and additional income.
“The socio-economic report that was commissioned as part of this project suggested there could be as many as 120 jobs locally and 175 in the wider area.”